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CHANDRASHILA TREK

Tunganath Chandrashila Trek

It is a famous saying in the mountains that they call you. Their charm is tempting indeed and the prime example of this is the famous Chopta Chandrashila Trek

This trek is nothing less than a jackpot for an outdoor enthusiast. It covers the most stunning tourist attractions of Uttarakhand all together. At the same time one will be exposed to the most untouched and lesser explored areas of Garhwal. This makes this trek unique, interesting and on the top of every trekkers bucket list. It is one of the easier treks of the north.

Chopta is known as the Mini Switzerland of India. It is located at an altitude of about 2700 meters and is scattered with Rhododendron and Deodar. This small village situated in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand is the starting point of the route to world famous Tungnath temple.

The other highlights of this trek are

• Deoraiyatal– The emerald green high altitude lake known for reflecting the Chaukhamba Peak in its water.

• Tungnath temple– said to have been built by Arjuna himself. It is hailed as the highest abode of Lord Shiva.

Chandrashila- literally translated as “Moon Rock”, Chandrashila is at a height of about 4,000 m (13,000 ft) above sea level and provides a view of several Himalayan
peaks. There are various legends associated with this place. According to one such legend, this is the place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana.

Day 5

Day 1

Drive from Haridwar to Sari

Altitude: 1,024 feet to 6554 feet

6 hours

Hardiwar to Sari is undoubtedly one the most scenic road trips in the country. You will take a cab to Sari. Sari is a beautiful small village near Chopta and it is considered to be the base camp of this trek. It is an 8-hour drive from Haridwar.

En route to Sari you will cross several cities like Rishikesh, Devaprayag and Rudraprayag , all known for religious tourism. You will travel alongside River Alaknanda through Gopeshwar and Josimath finally reaching Sari.

A confluence is the junction point of two rivers and is a rare and beautiful sighting in the mountains.

This beautiful drive will show you Bhagirathi River and Alaknanda River confluence at Devprayag (Delta), Mandakni River and Alaknanda River confluence at Rudraprayag.

From Sari it is further a 2.5 kms uphill trek to the beautiful Deoriatal.

DAY 2

Sari to Deoriatal Lak

Altitude: 6,601 ft to Deoria tal 7,841

1 hour

Deoria Tal –

This high altitude lake is world famous for its panoramic views of gigantic Himalayan ranges like Bandarpoonch, Nilkantha and Chaukhamba.

According to folklore, devis or goddesses created this lake by digging it with their own hands. This beautiful lake situated at an altitude of 2400m is most famous for mirroring the peaks of Chaukhamba in its pristine emerald green waters.

Deoriatal trek is quite steep and the terrain is a mix of rugged and rocky and dense jungles. However, upon reaching the top of the hill you will encounter Bugyals, high altitude grasslands. The view of this lake amidst the greenery of Bugyals is like a dream come true for every nature lover. Camping in a place like this is an opportunity of a lifetime for anyone.

Upon reaching after enjoying some hot tea you will be taken for a short acclimatization walk. The leaders will take the group around the area for a short hike, for the acclimatization of the body to a new altitude and temperature. This is also important to familiarize the team with the surroundings and the flora and fauna of the place.

This will be followed by the briefing for the day’s plan by the leader followed by an ice breaker/activity

Group can rest. But please note that Rest in the mountains must not be confused with the way one rests in the city. Participants are advised to stay outside as much as they can instead of inside the tents/huts. They can click pictures, get to know each other and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place

Next will be the very important Tent Pitching Lecture, Demonstration and Activity. Remember that tent is your ‘home’ in outdoors. It is your shelter that needs to be understood in terms of its utility and respected. Participants will be taught how to pitch tents. A demonstration will be given by one of the leaders along with the rules of tent pitching.

All the members will pitch their own tents and then have tea.

After tea we have Outdoor games and activities conducted by leaders for team building and fun. Soup will always be followed by Reflection session. Conducted by the leaders, in the reflection session the entire team sits together and shares their insight about the experience so far, their observations, learning and any queries. This will be followed by the brief for the next day and instructions from leaders.

Day 3

Deoriyatal to Chopta

Altitude 8000 feet to 9000 feet

7-8 hours

The trek to Chopta finally begins on day three after spending a wonderful day and night in Deorital

After breakfast, the group will begin their uphill walk through the dense vegetation of the area. It is highly likely to spot various types of birds and even animals in this region. It is especially known for Monal, the beautiful state bird of Uttarakhand. The area is specifically known for its biodiversity.

Finally after a long walk of 8 kms you will reach the gorgeous Rohini Bugyal and Chopta. You immediately realize upon reaching Chopta why it is known as the Switzerland of India. Its vast Bugyals really are a beauty unmatched!

Here the group will repeat the same schedule as in Deoriatal

Toilet tents, Kitchen tents and sleeping tents will be pitched. The team will indulge in short hikes and fun games throughout the day. Late evening the group will indulge in reflection session with the leaders. To be in a heavenly place like Chopta truly is an experience of a lifetime.

Note* It is very important that participants follow the “buddy system” especially at night. Strolling outside alone at night is highly risky as there is always a lurking danger of wild animals.

Day 4

Chopta to Chandrashila Peak via Tungnath and back to Chopta

Altitude - 8,790 ft to 12,083 ft

4 hours

This really is like the most happening day of this entire trekking experience. Nothing beats the sense of joy and achievement one feels upon reaching the final destination of this trek i.e. the Chandrashila peak. Also nothing can beat the gorgeous view of both Garwal and Kumaon Himalayan ranges visible from the summit.

This day the trek will start before sunrise. This is because the highlight of the day is watching the sunrise from Tungnath and the Chandrashila peak.

Chopta to Tungnath is a concrete track as it is a popular pilgrimage sight. This very interesting trail is known for its sharp turns in the form of 11 scissor bends.

It is one of the most comfortable and easy trails to walk on in the entire trek.

You will be amazed and delighted by the view of snow clad peaks around you as you move forward and gradually gain altitude. You will witness the Kedar massif and will walk through beautiful flowers strewn all over.

This trek is simple as well as steep. Finally the 11th bends leads one to the glorious Tungnath temple.

The mythological story behind the temple is that it was built by the Pandavas to repent for killing the Kauravas. Likewise it is believed that a small temple that lies atop Chandrashila peak was built by Ravana. Another one hour trek uphill from Tungnath will bring you to the top of the magnanimous Chandrashila.

The group will come back to Chopta and stay overnight.

Day 5

Trek back from Chopta to Sari

Sari to Haridwar by cab

Altitude- 9000 feet

Time taken: 7-8 hrs

The group will descend Post breakfast at Chopta right till Siri. This is a long but easy downhill trek. From Siri the cab arranged by the company will drop the participants back to Haridwar

These are the Mantras for a safe as well as responsible trek:

Plan Prepare Ahead You cannot start out without proper planning. Know the trek leaders, your team members and the terrain thoroughly. Pack all essentials

Follow the leader Please understand that you have to follow the instructions and briefing given out at all times. Make sure that the leader is aware of your whereabouts at all times.

Stick with the group A trek has a leader and then there is a guide who takes lead while marching. You will always follow the guide and be behind him/her. A co guide or sweeper stays behind everyone to make sure everyone is together. Make sure that you are not behind the co guide or the sweeper. Do not wander away from the group, ever.

Know your campsite Inspect the place you camp at and know your surroundings. The surface where you pitch your tents should be a flat and durable surface away from any kind of danger and risk.

Trash the Trash While trekking or camping make sure the environment and surroundings are not being littered. Always make sure to have a trash bag with you at all times.

Leave No Trace Very close to the previous rule this means that you must leave nature unharmed and untouched while you are there.

Cover the pits the pits dug in grounds for defecation should not be left open. That is a big No.

Respect Wildlife Do not pester the wildlife by extra noise and other disturbances.

No Drinking and Smoking Consumption of tobacco liquor and drugs is prohibited and punishable.

Walking Manners

You cannot walk in the mountains as you like. Your every step will determine the success of your trek so place it cautiously and follow the rules listed below

Always walk on the mountain side. For safety of yourself and fellow trekkers

Give way to other trekkers.

Take permission before overtaking

Walk in a ZIG ZAG way to feel less tired

Take small steady steps

Walk on already established trails to avoid harming vegetation

Stay away from wild berries and fruits. Do not consume without knowledge

Click pictures in a safe spot

Do not listen to music with earplugs while trekking

Never run. Be it downhill or uphill

Walk in a rhythm

Stop at assigned rest points and not every now and then

Do not drink water while trekking.

Make sure to have water in your bottle till you reach your camp/summit

Treks at night time are discouraged

Mountain Customs

Respect other visitors and trekkers

Greet people you see and meet

Always greet the locals. They share valuable information

Always report the slightest problem/discomfort to the leader

Always acclimatize yourself to the altitude.

Do not sleep in the day

Do not stay up at night. Take good rest

Do not be overconfident. Approach the mountains humbly

Planning is the mother of proper execution. Planning and preparation is the most important part of a trek. Landing on a trek without adequate preparation is the worst nightmare of a responsible traveler. Often trekking aspirants waste a lot of time thinking about what they should carry to the wilderness. However, the truth is that there isn’t much to decide. There are only essentials and must haves that have to be carried and used.

Do not leave home unless you are carrying these!

We know it can be quite frustrating to decide what to carry on a trek. We have made this easy for you

Ensure that you have all of these:

Note* you can rent or hire stuff that you don’t wish to buy but make sure you have it

PERSONAL MEDICATION*

Please note that the organizers always carry a first aid kit with all essential medicines. However, your personal first kits will be appreciated

By Air

For air travel, the closest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun (30 kms).

By Train

Train travel is highly recommended with enough options being there.

By Bus

There are frequent Public Transport buses including Volvos available from Delhi and other cities to Haridwar.

These frequently asked questions will be of great help to solve your own doubts and queries. Have a look!

1. Which is the best season to trek?

This depends on a lot of factors. What do you mean by best? Are you looking to seeing a lot of snow? If yes, then the summer treks around May June promise more snow. However, they are way more challenging. If you are looking to be more comfortable and enjoy scenic beauty, then you must opt for the October season. Every trek has its own beauty which varies season to season. Read up about the treks to get a better idea.

2. What will the weather be like?

Again, depends on which trek you are opting for at what time of the month and what the altitude of the place is.

Treks are mostly conducted at a time when the mountains are enjoying good weather. In extreme winters and rainfall time treks do not happen. Please check the temperature of the place on the internet before you opt for it. Prepare yourself accordingly. Nights and mornings are damn cold, and it can get really hot in the day.

Please remember that mountains are unpredictable when it comes to weather. Rainfall, snowfall is common. The course of the trek is decided according to the weather on a daily basis by trek leaders.

3. What should I pack?

Please refer to the Himalayan Freaks To-Pack List. Carry everything

4. What kind of a bag do I need?

It should be more than 60 liters. opt for a good quality branded rucksack that is durable and comfortable.

5. How many trek leaders will be there?

This depends on the number of participants. We ensure a healthy ratio of leaders and clients for your adequate care.

6. Should I carry my own food?

Yes, only dry snacks and not a lot of it because you must carry the bag to the top. Pack light.

7. How many people stay in one tent?

This depends on the size of the tent. We carry four men tents that are comfortable and spacious for four people

8. What kind of food will we get in the mountains? Will we cook our own food?

No. A dedicated kitchen team will trek along with you. The food is fantastic

9. Do I need any documents ?

Refer to the terms and conditions page

10. I don’t have prior trekking experience. What should I do?

You must definitely trek because everyone has a first time. But make sure to pick a moderately easy trek if it is your first time. Prepare physically

11. I am not physically very fit. Can I go?

Physical fitness is a must for treks. For a fun and enjoyable experience train yourself before signing up for a trek. We expect a recent medical certificate from an authorized MBBS doctor proving that you are fit for high altitude trekking. You can download the medical form from the website

If you suffer from severe muscular, chest, heart, asthmatic, or bronchial disorders, or have high blood pressure you are advised against coming on HF trekking trips that go to altitude.

12. Will I get my money back in case I cancel it last moment?

Refer to our cancellation and refund policy page

13. What is the age limit?

14 to 70 (Minors have to be accompanied by parent/guardian)

14. Are there toilets there?

In the mountains, toilet tents are pitched which basically means that you do your business in pits dug in the ground. Sometimes, depending on the situation one might have to go in the open. This is part of the mountain life

15. Do we carry our own tent and sleeping bags?

No these are carried by porters and provided by us. If you wish to get your own sleeping bag you can.